MacKillop students shine on the catwalk

These stylish ladies know a thing or two about creating perfect outfits.

MacKillop College students Holly Defina and Daria Messina took to the catwalk at the recent Fashion Awards Australia, snaring the Rising Star award for the years 9-10 and years 11-12 categories, respectively.

Holly, 15, impressed judges in the year 9-10 chic daywear category with her Audrey Hepburn-inspired navy dress and white gloves.

Holly spent a year working on the designs and said she was thrilled to see the dress come to life.

“I didn’t expect it at all,” she said of the award. “I was in so much shock when they called my name, I didn’t know what was happening.”

Daria, 18, who submitted three designs for the awards, won the year 11-12 long-gown category for her black and grey halter-neck evening gown and, with a different dress, placed second in the cocktail category.

“It still doesn’t feel real,” she said of her success. I went in with hope but no expectation. I just love elegant garments and evening wear.”

Another MacKillop student, Suzana Mi, came third in the year 11-12 calico category and third in the year 11-12 cocktail wear section for a collaboration with fellow MacKillop College student Eden Toohey on a men’s suit with a picture of Elvis on the back of the jacket.

MacKillop teacher Jennifer Morrison said she loved seeing students’ hard work pay off.

“To win a prize is the icing on the cake,” she said.